John Wilson Eaton

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Wilson Eaton, 79, of Farmington, NM on March 16, 2025. John was born in Farmington, NM on June 1, 1945, to Alfred and Margaret Eaton. John was Tó dích'ii'ii, born for Hooghan łani, his maternal grandfather's are Bit'ahnii and his paternal grandfathers’ are Tó Aheedlíínii.

John, also known as "Wil," "Wilson," and "JWE," spent his formative years attending various schools in Carson, Shiprock, Bloomfield, and Ignacio, Colorado, before graduating from Dulce High School. He pursued higher education in Denver for two years before returning to Dulce, where he began his career as a construction worker.

His professional journey led him to work at power plants in Kirkland and Waterflow, though he was eventually laid off. Undeterred, John worked tirelessly to establish his own construction company, J.W. Eaton General Construction which he successfully managed for 15 to 20 years before retiring and selling the business.

John had a passion for life and adventure. He loved traveling, with Germany being the farthest destination he explored. He also found joy in outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and camping, as well as in cooking and sharing laughter with those around him. Known for his playful sense of humor, John had a knack for giving everyone around him unique and endearing nicknames. A social and warm-hearted individual, he cherished the company of friends and family, always making those around him feel special.

In 1993, John began attending Maranatha Fellowship, where he became an active and dedicated member. His construction company even played a role in building the church. Over time, he took on leadership roles, joining the church council and becoming a Deacon. His commitment to his faith eventually led him to pursue pastoral training in LDN.

John's life was marked by hard work, resilience, and a deep connection to his community, faith, and loved ones. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave to everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Margaret Eaton, his brother, Jimmy Eaton, and his sister, Ruth Pete.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ethelene Eaton, his son, Chad Eaton, and his daughters, Melissa Eaton and Ranae Notsinneh. He is also survived by his brother, Bill Eaton, and his sisters, Priscilla Tsosie and Lorraine Harrison. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren: Tyanna, SunnyRose, Sunshine, Darion, Chloe, Kataleya, Enzo, Rosey, Annessa, Aiden, Adam, Zoey, Morgan, Jaden, and Jordan.

Visitation will be held on March 21, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Maranatha Fellowship. The funeral service will follow at 10:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Dave Dykstra. Burial will take place at 12:00 PM at St. Luke's Cemetery in Carson, NM. A reception will be held immediately after the burial at Carson Faith’s Church in Carson, NM.

The pallbearers honoring his memory will be Chad Eaton, Raymond Tahdooahnippah, Shane Betselie, Tyrell Castiano, Kyle Pete, Jasper Werito, Ricky Werito, and Atero Willie.

Memorials/donations may be made to Farmington Funeral Home or through GoFundMe at https://gofund.me/cedc45f5